Demeclocycline

Drug Status in USA : Approved
Drug Status in Canada : Approved

pronunciation

pronounced as (dem e kloe sye' kleen)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Demeclocycline is used to treat bacterial infections including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; acne; and infections of skin, genital, and urinary systems. Demeclocycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.


How should this medicine be used?

Demeclocycline comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken two to four times a day. Drink a full glass of water with each dose. Take demeclocycline on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Do not take demeclocycline with food, especially dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take demeclocycline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.


What are the precautions to be followed?

Before taking demeclocycline,
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to demeclocycline, tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, or any other medications.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take, especially antacids, anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin), and penicillin. Demeclocycline decreases the effectiveness of some oral contraceptives; another form of birth control should be used while taking this drug.
  • be aware that antacids, calcium supplements, iron products, and laxatives containing magnesium interfere with demeclocycline, making it less effective. Take demeclocycline 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids (including sodium bicarbonate), calcium supplements, and laxatives containing magnesium. Take demeclocycline 2 hours before or 3 hours after iron preparations and vitamin products that contain iron.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes or kidney or liver disease.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking demeclocycline, call your doctor immediately. Demeclocycline can harm the fetus.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking demeclocycline.
  • plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Demeclocycline may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
  • you should know that when demeclocycline is used during pregnancy or in babies or children up to age 8, it can cause the teeth to become permanently stained. Demeclocycline should not be used in children under age 8 unless your doctor decides it is needed.

What are possible side effects of this medication ?

Demeclocycline may cause side effects. You may experience a darkened or discolored tongue. This effect will go away when you stop taking the medicine. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
  • diarrhea
  • itching of the rectum or vagina
  • sore mouth
  • changes in skin color
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
  • severe headache
  • blurred vision
  • skin rash
  • redness of the skin (sunburn)
  • hives
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • itching
  • dark-colored urine
  • light-colored bowel movements
  • loss of appetite
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • stomach pain
  • extreme tiredness or weakness
  • confusion
  • decreased urination


How to store the medication and dispose it of after its use later?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.


Drug Category/Class

  • Tetracyclines
  • Dermatologicals
  • Antibiotics for Topical Use
  • Tetracycline and Derivatives
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antibacterials for Systemic Use
  • Antiinfectives for Systemic Use
  • Tetracycline and derivatives
  • Tetracyclines
Prescribed Used primarily to treat Lyme disease, acne, and bronchitis. Also indicated (but rarely used) to treat urinary tract infections, gum disease, malari...
Weight :464.853
Structure Demeclocycline
Generic Drug Demeclocycline prescribed Used primarily to treat Lyme disease, acne, and bronchitis. Also indicated (but rarely used) to treat urinary tract infections, gum disease, malari...
Formula

C21H21ClN2O8

Demeclocycline has 4 Brands listed


Ledermycin (150 mg)Ledermycin (300 mg)
Ledermycin Tab (150 mg)Ledrmycin FC (150 mg)

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